‘Thousands of Illegal Uses’: SNAP Fraud Crackdown

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‘Thousands of Illegal Uses’: SNAP Fraud Crackdown




Story by David Wilson
Nov 24 • 2 min read • Updated 18m ago


Key takeaways

Secretary Brooke Rollins requires all SNAP participants to reapply after data irregularities, aiming to stop widespread fraud.

Initial review found 226,000 fraudulent claims and 691,000 unauthorized transactions, with stolen benefits totaling $102 million in Q1 FY2025.

About 700,000 people removed, over 100 cases referred for arrest, and states must submit records for ongoing structural changes in SNAP.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins is requiring all SNAP participants to reapply after preliminary data irregularities, sparking concerns that it may block eligible households. Administration officials have noted the move will ultimately eliminate widespread fraud. About 700,000 people have reportedly been removed, and over 100 cases have been referred for arrest.

Rollins said, “We have to make sure for those that really need this benefit that we are able to make sure that it’s going to the right people.” She added, “So, we’re making a lot of structural changes in SNAP.”

Rollins ordered states to submit SNAP records, and an initial USDA review found irregularities. Data from 29 states revealed cases the agency deemed problematic.

Rollins said, “Business as usual is over. The status quo is no more.” She added that reviews found “thousands and thousands of illegal uses of the electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card.”

The USDA recorded 226,000 fraudulent SNAP claims and 691,000 unauthorized transactions, mostly from electronic theft. Stolen benefits reportedly reached $102 million in Q1 FY2025.

Rollins said, “There are vulnerable families in America that need this program that aren’t getting it because of the fraud and abuse that now we’re going to work to fix.”

A USDA spokesperson stated, “Rates of fraud were only previously assumed, and President Trump is doing something about it. Using standard recertification processes for households is a part of that work. As well as ongoing analysis of State data, further regulatory work, and improved collaboration with States.”


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From Macon Telegraph







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